Galicia: 25 years in Golborne

Galicia, the restaurant and tapas bar long a favourite neighbourhood haunt of many Golborne folk, has just turned 25. With a Golborne and Portobello restaurant scene that sees new openings come and go at a bewildering speed, what's the secret of Galicia's longevity, and popularity?

The food and the ambience are at the heart of Galicia's success. The kitchen offers the cuisine of the northern Spanish region of Galicia. It's heavy on fish, with tapas dishes like boquerones, marinated anchovy fillets, Pulpo a la Gallego, rounds of octopus tentacles with olive oil and paprika served on a wooden platter, and chiperones en su tinta, squid cooked in its own ink.

Other dishes to look out for include patatas bravas, fried potatoes in a spicy tomato sauce, chuletas de cordero, grilled lamb cutlets, and albondigas, meatballs in a rich gravy.

The ambience is a happy combination of Golborne and Galicia. You'll find no glaring minimalism or faux retro chic here, the interior is comfortably Spanish from top to toe. Staff, many of whom have been there for decades, are efficient and professional, and once you've been there a few times, they'll be bringing your favourite dishes from memory.

It's a great place for drinks and tapas with a friend or two, or a full meal from the restaurant menu with a large party. If you haven't already made friends with Galicia, don't wait another 25 years!